Getting Through What You're Going Through

Life at Saddleback Church rarely slows down for Pastor Rick Warren and his wife Kay. After four glorious days of Easter services, a typically busy week of ministry began. Christianity Today was scheduled to run an article highlighting Warren’s upcoming book, The Peace Plan. His goal is to reach people all over the world with translations in multiple languages.

Five days after Easter, the Warren’s world changed forever. After several unsuccessful attempts to contact one of their sons, Rick and Kay had a strange sense something wasn’t right. Their twenty-seven year old son, Matthew had battled depression for most of his life. Sadly, Rick and Kay’s worst nightmare was confirmed when they discovered Matthew had taken his own life.   

In the months since Matthew’s death, the Warrens have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of love they have received. Pastor friends from around the country traveled to the Lake Forest, California campus to preach during Rick’s time with his family. On July 27, 2013 Rick and Kay returned to Saddleback to share their story and help others find hope after unimaginable loss.

“How to Get Through What You’re Going Through" is a six part series at Saddleback. The Warrens want people to know God can be trusted; and this is not the end of the story.  

What do you do when hope doesn’t turn out the way you think it will? Kay answered, “You rebuild your hope.” As their family begins the long journey toward healing, Kay told the huge crowd how her faith continues to sustain her. She shared the beautiful “hope box” she has created filled with powerful promises from God’s word. 

Maybe your hope has been shattered. If you’re beginning to rebuild your life after loss, what reminders would you put in your hope box? You can join the conversation here. 

These are a few treasures from my hope box:

     *Psalm 34:18 The Lord is close to the brokenhearted, and saves those who are crushed in spirit.
     *Matthew 11:28 Come to me all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
     *Revelation 21:4 He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning, or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.

"We will spend the rest of our lives comforting others with the comfort we have been shown." Thank you, Rick and Kay Warren.